Is Your Older Pet in Pain? Signs You Might Be Missing

Your Pet Isn’t Just “Getting Old” — They Might Be Hurting

We often hear things like,

“He’s just slowing down.”

“She doesn’t go upstairs anymore.”

“I think he’s just lazy now.”

But many of these signs point to something more serious: chronic pain, especially from arthritis.

At Hearthstone Animal Clinic, we see it all the time — and we want you to know there are great options to help your pet feel better.

🐶 Common Signs of Pain in Older Dogs

• Slower to rise after resting
• Hesitant to jump or climb stairs
• Stiff walking or limping
• Less playful or social
• Panting, pacing, or restlessness at night
• Licking or chewing at joints

🐱 Cats Hide Pain Even Better

Cats are experts at masking pain, but look for:

• Reluctance to jump on counters or beds
• Changes in grooming habits (less grooming or overgrooming painful spots)
• Hiding more
• Avoiding the litter box (it hurts to climb in)

🦴 What’s Causing the Pain?

In most senior pets, it’s some form of:

• Arthritis or joint degeneration
• Spinal pain (disc issues or spondylosis)
• Old injuries flaring up
• Dental disease (yes, it counts — and it hurts!)

💉 How We Treat Pain at Hearthstone Animal Clinic

We take a multi-modal approach, which means combining different strategies to manage pain and inflammation:

Medical Options:

• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Gabapentin or tramadol for nerve or chronic pain
• Joint supplements (more on that in blog #4)
• Adequan injections (helps rebuild cartilage)

Supportive Care:

• Laser therapy to reduce inflammation
• Weight management to relieve joint strain
• Soft bedding and ramps at home
• Regular rechecks to adjust the plan as your pet ages

🧪 Do We Need X-Rays?

In many cases, yes. X-rays ($315 including a radiologist review) can help us:

• Confirm arthritis
• Rule out tumors or injuries
• Spot disc or hip issues early

🙌 The Goal Is a Better Quality of Life

Our goal isn’t just to treat pain — it’s to help your pet move, play, and enjoy life again. Most pets show noticeable improvement within days of starting treatment.

📞 Is Your Pet Acting “Old” — Or Are They Just Hurting?

Let us help you figure it out. Book an arthritis and mobility consult today by calling (281) 859-9244 or schedule online.